The first live TV broadcast in North Korea of this World Cup turned of to be Portugal's 7-0 rout of the North Koreans. It was probably the last thing the authorities in North Korea wanted its populace to see, but Korean Central Television showed the entire game, despite a reputation for political caution and face-saving censorship.

Other World Cup games, including North Korea's much more impressive showing in a 2-1 loss to Brazil, were screened several hours after they happened. That game was reportedly aired 17 hours after kickoff.

North Korea coach Kim Jong Hun said, "Back home I believe they will look to the next game and be rooting for us to play well in our final game and encourage us. We have not been able to reach our objectives but we have one game left to reinforce our mental abilities."